What You Need To Know About Breast Enhancement

Many women are not satisfied with the size or shape of their breasts. Breast enlargement can improve your appearance, and even improve your self-confidence. Some information can help you decide if breast enhancement is the right solution for you.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure. While it is generally performed to make breasts larger, it can also improve the shape of the breasts.

The procedure is performed by implanting fluid-filled sacs either underneath the chest muscle or behind the natural breast tissue. When the procedure is successfully completed, the breasts are fuller and larger.

History Of Implants

The practice of surgical breast implants began more than 50 years ago. The first procedure was performed in Texas. While the use of silicone implants remained popular for decades, there were complications. The silicone implants did not look or feel natural, and the implants could leak or be rejected by the body.

In 2000, saline-filled implants were approved by the FDA. As saline implants are made with sterile salt water, they are less likely to cause health complications. Women generally agree they feel and look completely natural. Saline is most often used in breast enhancement procedures today.

Worldwide, breast enlargement is the second most common type of cosmetic surgery. From young adults to older women, it can lead to satisfaction with one’s physical appearance and healthy self-confidence.

The Pros And Cons Of Breast Enlargement

Breast enhancement is not equally suitable for all women who want it. Before you decide it is right for you, consider both positive and negative aspects of the surgery.

First, on the negative side, there can be complications. While complications are relatively rare, they do occur. A woman may develop an infection, or the implant may break and begin leaking. If an implant breaks, the silicone can spread in your body. Although there is no conclusive evidence that this can present a health hazard, the implant can be ruined long before the woman notices it has ruptured.

Another issue is women occasionally have unrealistic expectations. There are some women who approach augmentation surgery with the belief that it will radically change their lives. These types of unrealistic expectations end in dissatisfaction and disappointment. This is why it is important for physicians and their patients to have a frank discussion about expectations before a procedure is scheduled.

There are positive aspects to augmentation, too. The most important is its ability to help women feel confident and happy with their physical appearance. As long as they keep the outcome in perspective, and do not expect radical changes in their lives, women who are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts are usually delighted with the results.

This confidence can extend from social situations to a new pride in her body. She can wear clothing that she did not feel comfortable wearing before, and feel wonderful about the way she looks. With sensible expectations, breast enhancement can make a difference.

Who Is A Candidate For Breast Enlargement?

Unless there is a medical reason for the surgery, physicians prefer to limit augmentation to women who have reached adult age. The reason for this is an adolescent’s body has not yet fully developed. If a teen wants surgery, she should expect to wait until she is an adult.

Some women want surgery because they feel their breasts are too small, or do not like the shape of their breasts. Women whose breasts have changed through pregnancy and childbirth are often good candidates for surgery. These women can have a better self-image, and feel good about their bodies.

However, there are women who should avoid breast enhancement. Heart failure, hypertension, lung problems, diabetes, epilepsy, vascular problems, neurological issues, and some drug allergies are often considered contraindications to the surgical procedure. If you have any of these conditions, be honest with your doctor when you discuss surgery.

What To Expect

If your health history and examination show your doctor you are a good candidate, there are steps you need to take to prepare for surgery. Your doctor will advise you to stop smoking, stop using aspirin, and stop using specific medications. When you follow this advice, your healing will be faster. You will be less likely to experience unnecessary bleeding or other complications.

You will be given information about aftercare. Make sure to follow these post-op instructions. From limiting physical activity to taking antibiotics, everything on the list of instructions has an important purpose. Follow the instructions so your body can heal.
If breast enlargement is appropriate for you, discuss it with your personal physician. It will be your opportunity to ask questions, and feel confident about your decision. It is a relatively simple procedure that has benefited many women, and it could be an excellent choice for you, too.